This represents a flagship project to construct the first new strategic water resource, and corresponding pipeline, in the South East for decades. Construction work is anticipated to start on the Havant Thicket Reservoir Project (the "Project") in 2024, for completion by 2029. The Project is socially, economically and environmentally significant. It is the product of collaborative regional water planning particularly between Portsmouth Water and Southern Water, and forms a key step in increasing water resilience in the South East. The procurement of the main works contractor for the main reservoir works and additional elements (MRW+ Contract) was advertised in FTS Contract Notice 2021/S 000-000071. The main works pipeline contract and framework agreement are the subject of a separate procurement.

The MRW+ Contract encompasses design and construction of the Havant Thicket Reservoir, as well as other construction works and services related to the Project (excluding pipeline construction). The NEC4 ECC Option C (Target contract with activity schedule) is the form of contract for the Main Reservoir Works Contract. The most economically advantageous Tenderer as defined in the ITT has been awarded the Main Reservoir Works Contract.